(NAPSA)—If you want to create a wedding to remember, say “I do” to the advice of the person who created dream weddings for clients such as Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale, Heidi Klum and Seal, and Trista and Ryan from “The Bachelorette.” Event planner Mindy Weiss is happyto help. As Linens ’n Things exclusive new Bridal and Gift Registry expert, Mindy Weiss offers some of her favorite ideas for creating a once-in-a-lifetime event and a one-of-a-kind new home. REGISTERING For GIFTS Give guests lots of choices and price ranges. To makeit easier on yourself, wear comfortable shoes and clothes when choosing your gifts. Take along some water and snacks. If your fiance doesn’t want to be involved, do most of the legwork yourself and reinvite him once you’ve narrowed down the choices. Let him be the one to wield the scanner that logs in your selections Personalize Your Registry Let the registry reflect your personality and style. Think about your entertaining style and develop plans aroundthat. If formal is your style, consider place settings as a good option along with stemware and silverware. If you’re a novice cook, think about a good stainless-steel cookware set. If you’re an aspiring gourmet, consider the performance of hard anodized, tri-ply stainless. WEDDING IDEAS The Cake Get personal. Give each guest his or her own miniature wedding cake or cupcake—a work ofart to win over the toughest critic. Have a larger cake created so you can have the fun of slicing it. If you’re on a budget, stick to cupcakes. Add a special touch with your monogram, a special flower or color that makes the guests think A few details can make a world of difference whether you’re designing your wedding ceremony or decorating your new home. of you two. Flowers Take a cue from nature. An “ankempt garden” is a popular look with tall centerpieces overflowing with beautiful flowers, branches and leaves. Candles all over the table are a great way to give the room a warm, inviting finish. The idea is to make your guests feel as if they’ve entered a beautiful garden. To save money, you can put the centerpieces together yourself. To cut costs, buy lots of filler pieces such as branches and greenery and fill in with selected flowers for popsofcolor. Home Decor Don’t forget to feather the nest before leaving for your honeymoon. Whenregistering for gifts, Weiss and the design experts at Linens ’n Things recommend signing up for timeless pieces in whites and neutrals with pops of color. Add trend items through decorative accessories such as toss pillows and throws that can be inexpensively changed seasonally. Living and Dining Space: Dazzling Classic Whites Comfort is key. Look for comfort in seating with sectionals made to fit your space, layered with decorative pillows in classic whites with navy accents. Table linens, plates, glassware and flatware should all be traditional in style but with a personality that reflects the both of you. Let the color come alive in the food and flowers. The Bedroom: Affordable Luxury Create a private retreat. Layer beds with a down comforter, duvet cover and plenty of pillows. Mix decorative pillows of different shapes and textures with tone-ontone color and touchesof white. The Bathroom:Personalize It Make it yours. Add color and personality to the bathroom— monogram your bathrobes, towels and guest towels. The Kitchen: Function and Design Equip yourself. Take an inventory of what you own and take this opportunity to upgrade your existing appliances. Remember that technology has changed how these tools perform. The hottest items are hot beverage systems, grill pans and stand mixers. The hottest trend is making your kitchen have the look of a commercial kitchen. Start with stainless-steel appliances and add some personality with colored appliances and the latest in kitchen gadgets. The Outdoors: Bring The IndoorsAl Fresco Think outside the house. Place somecable knit throws in baskets on outdoor seating to create a cozy conversation area. Remembering to include something for every room in your home when you register can makeit even sweeter to return from your honeymoon. For more information, go to www.LNT.com.
